Townhall

Balmain Townhall

They say life is about the journey and not the destination. It's odd that although all finished paintings are a destination in themselves, sometimes it becomes clear that the artist has followed a particular journey to get there. As artists, self-doubt is a natural companion, and it’s during those moments that we lift our brushes and put our trust in the process. For this piece inspired by Balmain Townhall, I started from a different place, larger canvas, different ground, new palette, a lot more uncertainty.

The journey to create this impressionist painting was filled with challenges that shaped both the work and me. For a long time I liked it. Then I hated it. Then I began to doubt. Finally I found my focus. My immersion in the intricate details of this historic landmark became an exploration of first principles. As I worked away trying to capture the feeling that inspired me to paint it in the first place, I finally unlocked that place in myself and in my work that I want to share. All the time pushing the boundaries of my process. At times, the canvas felt daunting, the interplay of colour and complex form threatened to overwhelm me and for a long time I had to put it down.

When I came back to it, the atmosphere of Balmain began to reveal itself, and both my journey and the painting transformed. I am thrilled with the result. It conveys the connection I feel to Balmain and its community, serving as a heartfelt celebration of artistic expression and local pride. I hope it resonates with those who appreciate the beauty of urban landscapes, reflecting the rich tapestry of life within this remarkable peninsula. The harder the destination is to reach, the more satisfying it becomes.